We explore the big questions regarding human existence and the nature of reality. We
teach rigorous and open-minded analytical and critical thinking skills that are useful
in any field or part of life. APSU Philosophy classes are usually small, so students
get individual attention from their professors. The Philosophy Club at Austin Peay
is very active, meeting to discuss issues and have fun regularly. It has hosted debates
on campus with nationally-known debaters.

What will I learn?

We hope to share more than our knowledge of philosophy with students, but to involve
them in the search for wisdom and, most importantly, to share our love of exploring
truth, knowledge, beauty, and goodness. We examine the great philosophers and philosophical
movements but in ways that attempt to remain faithful to the importance of philosophy
for such concrete experiences as love, faith, hope, wonder, joy, sorrow, grief, music,
and laughter. In other words, for us the love of wisdom is not only a search for the
nature of reality but also a search for the nature, meaning, value, and purpose of
the human spirit (mind).

The Freshmen Seminar degree requirement completed by most students is APSU 1000. The
course is delivered in a small-class setting with like-minded students led by a faculty
member and a peer leader. The interdisciplinary course is intended to support first-semester
students and provide them with a foundation for university success. Emphasis is placed
on student engagement, university learning success strategies, support services, library
literacy, financial literacy, and academic and career planning. The first class meeting
of APSU 1000 during fall semesters is on Freshmen Convocation Day.

The general education core is designed to develop critical competencies in written
communication, oral communication, mathematical analysis, and critical thinking skills.
Students at APSU select coursework in the general education core in the areas of Communication,
Humanities and Fine Arts, Social and Behavioral Sciences, History, Natural Sciences,
and Mathematics. While the general education core requirements for graduation can
be met by choosing courses from each of these areas, some programs of study require
lower division courses that serve as prerequisites for upper division courses. Students
should consult the sample 4-year plans and confer with their academic advisors as
they choose their general education core courses.

What engagement opportunities are available to APSU students?

The Philosophy Club, run by students with faculty consultation, meets regularly to
discuss, debate, go on field trips, and have fun. Leadership opportunities are available.
APSU fosters a positive campus environment that encourages active participation in
university life.